Surat Thani

Surat Thani (often just "Surat") is the largest province of southern Thailand. Surat Thani means City of Good People, the title given to the city by King Vajiravudh (Rama VI). It is a gateway to the islands of Thailand's Gulf Coast: Ko Samui, Ko Pha Ngan, and Ko Tao are much-visited destinations, as well as Ang Thong National Marine Park and the famous Khao Sok National Park.

Visitor information

• Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)

  phone: +66 77-288-818
  address: Talad Mai Rd
  The TAT office on Talad Mai Road is the only government tourism office on mainland Surat Thani. TAT has brochures and maps for both local tourist destinations as well as those in other provinces. Clean public toilets are also available free of charge. TAT does not sell anything, they are only there to promote tourism. The other tourism offices around the city (like the one at the airport and the ones near Talad Kaset 1 and 2) are not official tourism offices and will try to sell you tourism packages or ferry tickets. Do not buy anything from these private tourism offices as they are usually offered at an inflated price. For ferry tickets, only buy them directly from the ferry operator or from Phantip Travel.

By road

Parallel to the railway in north-south direction runs the Asian Highway AH2 (Thailand Route 41). The major road in east-west direction is Thailand Route 401 connecting Takua Pa with Nakhon Si Thammarat, and Thailand Route 44|Rte 44 in southwesterly direction from Kanchanadit to Krabi. Rte 44 was built as part of the land bridge project connecting the Gulf of Thailand with the Andaman Sea. Unlike other highways there are no crossing intersections. The wide space between the two lanes is reserved for pipelines and a railway.

By plane

As of 2014, the province has two international airports: Surat Thani International Airport in Phunphin and Samui Airport on Ko Samui. Surat Thani Airport is served by five airlines: Thai Airways International (operated by Thai Smile from Suvarnabhumi Airport), Nok Air, Thai Lion Air from Don Mueang International Airport, Thai AirAsia from Don Mueang and Chiang Mai, AirAsia from Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Samui Airport is served by Bangkok Airways and Thai Airways International from Suvarnabhumi Airport, Hong Kong, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Penang.

No.	Airport	IATA	ICAO	Pax Total
1.	Surat Thani International Airport	URT	VTSB	1,321,909
2.	Samui Airport	USM	VTSM	1,990,058

• Surat Thani International Airport

  address: 73 Moo 3, Hua Toei, Phunphin District

Connect by bus or rental car (buy ticket and rent in the airport) to town. Phantip Travel has bus service connecting all flights to Surat Thani. Phantip Travel (Tel. +66 77 272230, +66 77 282331) is on Taladmai Rd. Price one-way is 100 baht.
If you're heading to Ko Samui, Seatran Ferry and other companies offer a bus/ferry service from the airport to Nathon Pier on Ko Samui for 400 baht (Aug 2017). It's also possible to book this trip with Air Asia, even as late as during the plane ride (they also use Seatran ferry). Travel time is three hours. Buses leave the airport six times per day.

Domestic

• Air Asia

  phone: +66 2 515-9999
  Flights from Bangkok (Don Mueang Airport), and Chiang Mai.

• Nok Air

  phone: 1318 (non-geographical)
  Flights from Bangkok (Don Mueang Airport).

• Thai Lion Air

  phone: +66 2529-9999
  Flights from Bangkok (Don Mueang Airport).

• Thai Smile

  phone: +66 2 118-8888
  Flights from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi Airport).

By train

The province is crossed by the southern railway, with Surat Thani Railway Station in Phunphin, about 15 km from downtown. A branch line to the west ends at Kirirat Nikhom Railway Station. It was originally planned to run to the coast next to the island of Phuket, but construction ended in 1956. In total there are 32 railway stations in Surat Thani Province.

• Surat Thani Railway Station

  address: Phunphin District, Surat Thani
  The Surat Thani train station, despite its name, is in Phun Phin, about 12 km west of the town centre. Most comfortable are the overnight trains from Bangkok, which arrive in early morning. There are always many who try to catch the tourists and sell them trips to Surat or the islands directly. Usually the most aggressive sellers are the most expensive. However, it's not a big problem to reach the city itself from the railway station. Municipal buses depart the train station for Surat Thani every 30 minutes and cost 20 baht, though the service seems to stop around 17:00. After that, the only option is a taxi, the drivers of which will come in to the station to try and find passengers. If you go outside and turn immediately to the left, there is a taxi stand with taxis charging a fixed price of 140 baht to Surat Thani. The price is clearly indicated on a printed canvas sign attached high up.

By bus

There are 3 main bus & coach terminals in Muang Surat Thani: Talad Kaset 1, Talad Kaset 2, and Surat Thani Bus Terminal.
Talad Kaset 1 and Talad Kaset 2 are across from each other, off of Talad Mai Road in the city centre, whereas Surat Thani Bus Terminal is outside of the city off of Highway 401, behind CentralPlaza. Talad Kaset 1 is for local buses to nearby districts. Talad Kaset 2 is for coaches and buses to further districts and popular tourist destinations, such as Khanom, Khao Sok, Krabi, Phang Nga, Phuket, and Hat Yai. The Surat Thani Bus Terminal is for longer haul rides, such as overnight buses to Bangkok.

• Talad Kaset 1

  address: Talad Mai Rd
  For local buses to nearby districts.

• Talad Kaset 2

  address: Talad Mai Road, Muang Surat Thani
  For coaches and buses to further districts and popular tourist destinations.
• Terminal 1: Surat Thani – Phuket
• Terminal 2: Surat Thani – Trung
• Terminal 3: Surat Thani– Khanom
• Terminal 4: Surat Thani– Bannaderm
• Terminal 5: Surat Thani– BanSong
• Terminal 6: Surat Thani– Bang Sawan
• Terminal 7: Surat Thani– Phasang
• Terminal 8: Surat Thani– Krabi
• Terminal 9:
• Terminal 10:

*

• Terminal 11:
• Terminal 12: Surat Thani– Chaiya
• Terminal 13: Surat Thani– Phuket
• Terminal 14: Surat Thani– Phuket
• Terminal 15: Surat Thani– Hat Yai
• Terminal 16: Surat Thani– Hat Yai
• Terminal 17: Surat Thani– Phang Nga
• Terminal 18: Surat Thani– Phuket
• Terminal 19: Surat Thani– Krabi
• Terminal 20: Surat Thani– Ranong
• Terminal 21: Surat Thani– Kian Sa
• Terminal 22: Surat Thani– Khao Sok
• Terminal 23: Surat Thani– Thungsong
• Terminal 24: Surat Thani– Ko Lanta

• Surat Thani Bus Terminal

  address: Wat Pradu, Muang Surat Thani
  For longer haul rides.

Phantip Travel

• Phantip Office - Surat Thani Town Branch

  phone: +66 77 272-230,+66 77 282-331
  address: 293/6-8 Talad Mai Road, Muang Surat Thani
  The main transportation provider in Southern Thailand is Phantip Travel (pronounced “pun-tip”). They are licensed by both the Department of Land Transportation and Department of Civil Aviation and have been in operation in Surat Thani since the early-1970s. They also hold the government contract for the downtown transportation hub. Their coaches are easily identifiable. Their minivans are white with green Thai writing. Look for the green "(1970)" above the back passenger window and the logo "Phantip (1970)" on the front doors.
• Surat Thani (Town) – Khao Sok (2.5 hrs, 200 baht)
• Surat Thani (Town) – Ko Lanta (6 hrs, 550 baht)
• Surat Thani (Town) – Ko Pha Ngan (3.3 hrs, 350 baht)
• Surat Thani (Town) – Ko Samui (3 hrs, 250 baht)
• Surat Thani (Town) – Ao Nang (4.1 hrs, 450 baht)
• Surat Thani (Town) – Ko Phi Phi (5.3 hrs, 550 baht)
• Surat Thani (Town) – Krabi (3 hrs, 250 baht)
• Surat Thani (Town) – Phuket (5 hrs, 195 baht)
• Surat Thani (Town) – Ko Phang Nga (3.3 hrs, 150 baht)
• Surat Thani (Town) – Railay (4.3 hrs, 600 baht)
• Surat Thani (Town) – Ratchaprapha Dam (2 hrs, 200 baht)
• Surat Thani (Town) – Raja Ferry, Donsak Pier (1.3 hrs, 150 baht)
• Surat Thani (Town) – Seatran Ferry, Donsak Pier (1.3 hrs, 150 baht)
• Surat Thani (Town) – Khanom (1.5 hrs, 200 baht)

• Phantip Office - Surat Thani Airport Branch

  phone: +66 77 272-230,+66 77 282-331
  address: Surat Thani International Airport
• Surat Thani (Airport) – Khao Sok (2 hrs, 250 baht)
• Surat Thani (Airport) – Ko Pha Ngan (4.3 hrs, 500 baht)
• Surat Thani (Airport) – Ko Samui (3.3 hrs, 400 baht)
• Surat Thani (Airport) – Ratchaprapha Dam (1.3 hrs, 250 baht)
• Surat Thani (Airport) – Ko Tao (6 hrs, 900 baht)
• Surat Thani (Airport) – Raja Ferry, Donsak Pier (2 hrs, 250 baht)
• Surat Thani (Airport) – Seatran Ferry, Donsak Pier (2 hrs, 250 baht)

• Phantip Office - Surat Thani Train Station Branch

  phone: +66 77 272-230,+66 77 282-331
  address: Surat Thani International Airport
• Surat Thani (Train Station) – Khao Sok (3 hrs, 200 baht)
• Surat Thani (Train Station) – Ko Lanta (6 hrs, 650 baht)
• Surat Thani (Train Station) – Ko Pha Ngan (5.3 hrs, 400 baht)
• Surat Thani (Train Station) – Ko Samui (3.3 hrs, 280 baht)
• Surat Thani (Train Station) – Ao Nang (4.3 hrs, 400 baht)
• Surat Thani (Train Station) – Ko Phi Phi (6.3 hrs, 650 baht)
• Surat Thani (Train Station) – Krabi (3 hrs, 250 baht)
• Surat Thani (Train Station) – Phuket (5 hrs, 200 baht)
• Surat Thani (Train Station) – Ratchaprapha Dam (3.3 hrs, 200 baht)
• Surat Thani (Train Station) – Raja Ferry, Donsak Pier (2 hrs, 180 baht)
• Surat Thani (Train Station) – Seatran Ferry, Donsak Pier

By boat

The islands Ko Samui and Ko Pha Ngan are connected with the mainland by ferries, which mostly embark from Don Sak, while the ferries to Ko Tao start at Surat Thani or Ko Samui. There are three main ferry companies that operate from mainland Surat Thani to the islands: Lomprayah, Seatran, and Raja.
There are only two ferry piers in Muang Surat Thani: Tapee Pier, which Lomprayah's High Speed Catarman operates from, and Bandon Pier, which is for night boats only. Seatran Pier and Raja Pier are both in Don Sak District, 65km (40mi) east of Surat Thani city centre.

Ferry piers

• Bandon Pier

  address: Talat

• Tapee Pier

  address: Bang Kung
  Used by Lomprayah

• Seatran Ferry Pier

  address: Donsak District

• Raja Ferry Pier

  address: Donsak District

• Bang Num Jerd Pier

  address: Donsak District
  Used by P&T Samui Group

• Laem Thuat Pier

  address: Donsak District
  Used by Lomprayah for the slow ferry.

• LomprayahLomprayah High Speed Catamaran provides service from Muang Surat Thani and Donsak to Ko Samui, Ko Pha Ngan, Ko Tao, Ko Nanguan, and Angthong National Marine Park

• SeatranSeatran Ferry provides service from Surat Thani to Ko Samui, Ko Pha Ngan, and Ko Tao.

• Raja FerryRaja Ferry provides service from Surat Thani to Ko Samui and Ko Pha Ngan.

Surat Thani to/from Ko Samui

Operator	Surat Thani Pier	Ko Samui Pier	Travel Time	Price
Seatran Discovery	Seatran (Donsak)	Bangrak	1.5 hours	350 baht
Seatran	Seatran (Donsak)	Nathon	1.5 hours	140 baht
Raja	Raja (Donsak)	Lipa Noi	1.5 hours	140 baht
Lomprayah	Tapee (Muang)	Nathon	2 hours	140 baht

Surat Thani to/from Ko Pha Ngan

Operator	Surat Thani Pier	Travel Time	Price
Raja	Raja (Donsak)	2.5 hours	210 baht
Seatran Discovery	Seatran (Donsak)	2.5 hours	450 baht
Lomprayah	Tapee (Muang)	2.5 hours	700 baht

Surat Thani to/from Ko Tao

Operator	Surat Thani Pier	Travel Time	Price
Lomprayah	Tapee (Muang)	4-5 hours	800-900 baht
Seatran Discovery	Seatran (Donsak)	4 hours	700 baht

Ferry coach stations

• Seatran Coach Station

  address: Talad Mai Rd

• Raja Coach Station (Sirraja 1)

  address: Si Wichai 16, Muang Surat Thani

Night boats

The night boat ferries are individually owned and operated. Routes can be cancelled without any prior notice. Only buy night boat tickets directly from the ferry operator. The tickets can be purchased the day of departure from the boat operators at Bandon pier. The ticket stands are directly in front of the individual night boats.
The departure times and ticket prices for the night boats can vary as the individual boat and operator are on rotations. For example, the wooden Ko Tao night boat leaves an hour earlier than the metal Ko Tao night boats. Confirm with the operators at Bandon Pier the day of departure. Arrival times are estimates as it depends on the sea conditions.

Departs	Arrives	Price	Travel Time
22:00 from Bandon Pier	04:00 at Ko Samui (Nathon)	200 baht	6 hours
23:00 from Bandon Pier	06:00 at Ko Pha Ngan	400 baht	7 hours
22:00-23:00 from Bandon Pier	08:00 at Ko Tao	550-600 baht	8-9 hours
22:00-23:00 from Ko Tao	07:00 at Bandon Pier	550-600 baht	8-9 hours
22:00 from Ko Samui (Nathon)	04:00 at Bandon Pier	200 baht	6 hours
22:00 from Ko Pha Ngan	04:00 at Bandon Pier	400 baht	6 hours

Tuk-tuks cost around 10-20 baht/per person around the town. Hail one on any major road with a wave or yell, negotiate a fare, and sit on the bench in the back.

By motorbike

• X Motorbike Rentals

  phone: +66 83 968 7298 (mobile)
  address: Soi 9 Karunrat Rd
  Offers motorbike rentals and full time mechanical services. Free delivery and pickup. Free motorbike riding lessons and help with Thai licensing also available.

By car

Car hire services are available at Surat Thani International Airport.

• Avis

  phone: +66 85 484 8010 (mobile)

• Hertz

  phone: +66 77 441 323

• Sixt

  phone: +66 81 453 6611 (mobile)

• Smile Car Rent Surat Thani

  phone: +66 87 837 4555 (mobile), +66 81 272 1576 (mobile)

• Surat Thani Car Rent

  phone: +66 93 767 5479 (mobile)

• Thai Rent A Car

  phone: 1647 (non geographic)

By taxi

• Taxi Thumngun (Taxi ทำเงิน)

  phone: +66 77 489-288, +66 77-489-289

• Taxi Pathway (Taxi พาธเวย์)

  phone: +66 88-750-0099 (mobile)

• GrabTaxiGrab taxi is now available in Surat Thani

• Bang Bai Mai Floating Market (ตลาดน้ำประชารัฐบางใบไม้)A "must see" in Surat Thani, this picturesque riverside market offers a range of ready-to-eat foods. The market also features a large fish pond, live music, and canal boat rides (at a cost). This market is on Sundays only and even though it’s open until 15:00, it’s best to go before noon.

Religious & historical sites

• City Pillar ShrineFormer site of the provincial administration building. The building was first destroyed when the Japanese invaded Thailand on 8 December 1941 and landed in Surat Thani. The building caught fire during the short battle and burned down. It was reopened in 1954. On 19 March 1982 it was destroyed again by a bomb planted by communist rebels, killing 5 people. This is a religious shrine and, although it is not a temple, dress appropriately and to remove shoes when entering the structure.

• Phra That Si Surat (พระธาตุศรีสุราษฎร์์)Khao Tha Phet is a hill outside of the city centre. It has an elevation of about 210 m (689 ft) and offers a good view over the town. On top of the hill is the Sri Surat stupa (also known by its common name, Phra That Khao Tha Phet), which was built in Srivijavan-style in 1957. The stupa contains a Buddha relic donated by India. Next to the stupa is a sweet shorea tree (Shorea roxburghii) planted by King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

• The two most important Buddhist monasteries of the province are in Chaiya District. Wat Phra Boromathat Chaiya boasts a chedi in Srivijaya-style, dating from the 7th century and carefully restored. Buddhist relics are enshrined in the chedi, and the surrounding chapels contain Buddha figures in Srivijayan style. The Chaiya National Museum adjoins the temple. Nearby is Wat Suan Mokkhaphalaram, a forest monastery founded by the famous monk Buddhadasa Bhikkhu.

Nature

• Nai Bang Area (ในบาง) – Nai Bang is an alluvial plain around the mouth of the Tapi River which is crisscrossed with networks of canals. The canals are lined with mangrove forest alternating with traditional southern-styled houses, behind which are coconut farms and orchards. The people here still maintain a simple way of life and make their living on indigenous natural resources, despite the bustling economy in the Ban Don (town) market just opposite the river. Access to Nai Bang is by the bridge across the Tapi River or by longtail boat from Ban Don. The boat can carry 6–8 people and charges 250 baht per hour. Visitors may contact travel agents in Surat Thani who sell a one-day package tour to the Nai Bang area.

• Ko Lamphu Public ParkA small, car-free island on the Tapi River offering walking & biking paths, exercise equipment, and a playground. Great place to play volleyball and basketball.

• Rama 9 Park (สวนหลวง ร.9)A city park offering walking & biking paths, exercise equipment, and a playground. There's also a large fish pond where you can buy fish food to feed the fish.

• Khun Thale Swamp (บึงขุนทะเล)Khun Thale Swamp, despite its name, is a picturesque marshland just south of the city centre. A local fishing spot for many years, the area is undergoing renovations (May 2018) to make the area more accessible. Despite ongoing renovations to the boardwalk, the area is still a great place for cycling. Paddle boats are available for a small fee to take out into the swamp. A troop of wild monkeys also lives on the south side of the swamp.

• Rubber Tree RoadRubber Tree Road is a scenic stretch of Talad Klauy-Kaouhaoukway Road in Muang Surat Thani with rubber trees that form a shaded canopy over the road.

• Rice Paddy at Rice Farm Villa Hotel

  address: Highway 420, Makham Tia, Muang Surat Thani
  This small rice paddy is in the middle of the city. The rice paddy can be viewed free of charge, just walk though the OTOP shopping center.

• Si Surat Bridge

  address: Bang Kung, Muang Surat Thani
  Tallest bridge in southern Thailand.

National parks

• Khao Sok National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติเขาสก) – As part of the largest moist evergreen forest in southern Thailand, the park is rich in flora including certain families of lotus, white palm, and fern. Khao Sok is also one of the best bird-watching spots in Thailand. Attractions in the park include:

• Khlong Phanom National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติคลองพนม) – High limestone mountains connected with Khao Sok National Park. Attractions in the park include Kiriwong and Chong Yung waterfalls and several caves full of stalactites and stalagmites.
• Kaeng Krung National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติแก่งกรุง) – Mountainous area covered by moist evergreen forests, where some rare and endangered species such as tree ferns can be found. Attractions in the park include hot springs, Bang Hoi Waterfall and Khlong Pa Waterfall.
• Tai Rom Yen National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติใต้ร่มเย็น) – The 425 square kilometre forest areas in Kanchanadit, Ban Na San and Wiang Sa were designated a national park in 1991. The mountains of the Nakhon Si Thammarat Range are mostly covered with moist evergreen forest and exotic and rare flora and fauna. Attractions in the park include:

Nearby districts

Chaiya District

See Chaiya page

Kanchanadit District

• Monkey Training College

  phone: +66 7722-7351, or +66 08-4745-5662
  address: 24 Moo 4, Thungkong, Kanchanadit
  Founded in 1957 by Somporn Saekhow to train pig-tailed macaques how to properly pick coconuts. Somporn's daughter, Somjai, now runs the school. The college remains first and foremost a training centre for coconut farmers' monkeys. Visitors are of course welcome but please contact the school before your visit. The training is done in an animal-friendly fashion. No punishments are given, only rewards. Also offers home stay ("home stay" is a word frequently used to indicate basic accommodations, and joining the host for meals) in two basic bungalows.

• Monkey Training Center

  phone: +66 08-9871-8017, +66 08-7677-3124
  Demonstration and lecture on how to train pig-tailed macaques to pick coconuts.

• Kuha CaveCave temple filled with multiple Buddha images of various styles including Dwaravati, Srivichai, Indian Pallava, and Siam Ayutthaya.

• Sinmana Farmstay

  phone: +66 08-1597-7575
  Oyster farm.

• Wat Khao Pranim ViewpointHillside view of the mountains and nearby fishfarms.

• Bor NumtipCave temple.

• Wat PraputthabatHilltop temple.

• Phu Rin WaterfallSmall waterfall.

• PhetpanomwangDisplay of large golden Buddha statues

Outer districts

Don Sak District

• Vipavadee Waterfall

  address: Pak Phraek, Don Sak District, Surat Thani
  Medium size waterfall. Popular socializing venue, both after school and on weekends.

• Rock Fish Museum

  phone: +66 77 371 197
  address: Highway 4142, Don Sak
  Collection of hand carved fish made out of stone. This museum was established in 1992 by Mr. Kitti Sin-udom, an old fisherman who spent more than 10 years carving stone here. More than 1,000 lifelike sculptures of marine fish found in the Gulf of Thailand are on display.

• Wat Khao Suwanpradit

  address: Don Sak, Surat Thani
  Wat Khao Suwanpradit was founded in 1982 by one of Southern Thailand’s most revered monks, Luang Pho Choi. The 45m tall stupa contains Buddha relics from Wat Phra Kiat from Chiang Mai. This hilltop monastery offers a great panoramic view of Don Sak as well as the Gulf of Thailand and the nearby islands.

• Hug Village Horse & Sheep Farm

  phone: +66 85-169-4800
  address: Don Sak, Surat Thani
  A horse (pony) and sheep farm with beautiful flower gardens and a café.

• Ko Raet

  address: Don Sak, Surat Thani
  A traditional Chinese fishing village. It’s also the smallest populated island in Thailand connected to the mainland via bridge. You can walk around the entire island in less than an hour and enjoy the views of the nearby gulf islands. Has multiple traditional homestays for visitors.

• Cho Waterfall

  address: Don Sak
  A small stream popular with the locals. Surrounded by food stalls and a couple small restaurants, people go to cool down or have their feet cleaned by "doctor fish" in the natural fish spa.

Khiri Rat Nikhom District

• Clear Water Canal

  address: Khiri Rat Nikhom
  A crystal clear stream. Popular local swimming spot.

• Hin Pat

  address: Khiri Rat Nikhom
  A giant fan-shaped rock that sits on top of a cliff. It has been a popular viewpoint among locals for many years but only became an "official tourist attraction" in 2014.

• Than Thong Waterfall

  address: Khiri Rat Nikhom
  Small waterfall, popular with the locals as a swimming spot.

• Phasuankwang Farm

  address: Khiri Rat Nikhom
  An animal farm/petting zoo with multiple animals including: deer, rabbits, turkeys, ponies, buffalo, and crocodiles.

• Wat Tham Singkhorn

  address: Khiri Rat Nikhom
  Wat Tham Singkhorn is an ancient temple built in the Ayutthaya period (1351 to 1767). Behind the temple is a large cave with multiple Buddha statues.

• Tham Singkhorn Hotsprings

  address: Khiri Rat Nikhom
  Nine natural hot springs. The hottest is around 70°C.

• Namrad Forest Headwaters

  address: Khiri Rat Nikhom
  Clear, fresh water swimming spot. As of 2018, this spot has been featured in numerous local travel blogs making it very popular. Get there early in the morning if you want to avoid the crowds.

• Kunfai Farm

  address: Khiri Rat Nikhom
  U-Pick strawberry farm. Strawberries don't grow very well in the southern Thai heat so be sure to check ahead to see if there is any fruit available.

Ban Ta Khun District

• Rajjaprabha Dam Golf Course

  address: Ban Ta Khun
  Par 72, 18-hole course.

• Khao Theppithak Suspension Bridge

  address: Ban Ta Khun
  Wooden suspension bridge with a heart shape mountain in the background.

Phanom District

• Ban Thum Phueng

  address: Phanom
  Small farming village offering numerous homestays and cabins for visitors. Fruit orchards, rubber and palm plantations, and vegetable farms. Small waterfall and hotspring nearby.

• Rajjaprabha Dam (เขื่อนรัชชประภา)

  address: Phanom
  165-km² (64-sq mi) man-made lake in Khao Sok National Park. Known for its floating raft-houses, it's an extremely scenic place great place for wildlife watching, swimming, kayaking, and even diving.

• Wat Phanom's Fishes River

  address: Phanom
  Fish viewing area. Fish include: tinfoil barb, silver barb, ponyfish, catfish, and carp.

• Mai Yai Waterfall

  address: Phanom
  The only waterfall in Khao Sok National Park that can be reached by car. Approximately 30 m high. Best time to visit is during the rainy season.

Tha Chang District

• Wat Mun Lek Folk Museum

  address: Tha Chang

Khian Sa

• Nong Thung Tong

  address: Khian Sa
  A wildlife sanctuary/no-hunting area. It is home to over 70 species of migratory birds, the oriental small-clawed otter, and the Asian Golden Cat. The area is mixed grasslands, marshes, and swamps. During the rainy season (October-December) the area is almost completely flooded.

• Thamma Park

  address: Khian Sa
  Hilltop temple with a picturesque view.

• 514 Base Historical Learning Centre

  phone: +66 7-743-9008, +66 8-7889-3084
  address: Khian Sa
  Formerly the People's Liberation Army 514 Camp. Provides information on the tropical rainforest’s ecosystem, social history, fighter and mass struggle during the movement of the Communist Party of Thailand, folk wisdom, indigenous values, and the concept of sacrifice for common good to youth.

Phrasaeng District

• Ang Nam Pood

  address: Phrasaeng
  Clear water spring. You can see the bubbles come up from the sand. Cabomba, a non-native invasive aquatic plant with pretty white flowers, can be viewed in the clear water. In addition to swimming, kayaks and paddleboats are available to rent.

• Tourism Attraction Bangsawan

  address: Phrasaeng
  River swimming spot.

• Nakwaree Shooting Association

  phone: +66 86-947-0137 (mobile)
  address: Makham Tia, Muang Surat Thani
  Shooting range with a variety of pistol and rifle rentals. Memberships also available.

• Bang Yai Fishing Park

  address: Makham Tia, Muang Surat Thani
  Stocked fishing park pond. Bring your own rod.

Cinema

• SF Cinema Central Plaza

  phone: +66 77 961-555
  address: 4th FL. Central Plaza Surat Thani
  Regularly shows (EN/TH) & (TH/EN) films.

• Major Cineplex Sahathai

  phone: +66 77 205-825
  address: Sahathai Garden Plaza Surat Thani
  Regularly shows (EN/TH) & (TH/EN) films.

• EGV Lotus

  phone: +66 77 405-235
  address: 3rd FL. Tesco Lotus Surat Thani
  Mostly in Thai (TH/--), but will screen (TH/EN) and (EN/TH) occasionally.

• SF Cinema Coliseum Surat Thani

  phone: +66 77 910-044
  address: 3rd FL. Coliseum Surat Thani
  Mostly (TH/--) but will screen (TH/EN) occasionally.

Festivals

• Chak Phra FestivalCelebrates the return of Gautama Buddha from heaven to earth to be greeted by multitudes. The celebration takes place every year immediately after the end of three month rain retreat, about October. It is celebrated in many parts of southern Thailand, but especially in Surat Thani. The evening prior to Chak Phra Day, billboards are erected showing Buddha's story around the city and celebrations continue day and night. On land, the splendidly adorned floats are pulled across the town by the participants. At the same time, on water a float decorated with colourful Thai designs carries Buddha's image. Chak Phra festivities conclude with a boat race and traditional games.

• Rambutan and Thai Fruit FestivalRambutan trees were first planted in Surat Thani at Ban Na San in 1926 by Mr. K. Vong, a Chinese Malay. The annual Rambutan Festival is held during the August harvest.

• Boon Sad Dean Sib FestivalHeld on the full moon of the 10th month in traditional calendar (about August). People go to the temple in remembrance of ancestors.

• Surat Thani Songkran FestivalThai New Year water festival is celebrated every year on 13 April.

• Surat Thani Loy Krathong FestivalHeld on the full moon of the 12th month in the traditional Thai lunar calendar. In the Western calendar this usually falls in November. During the evening of the full moon, people launch symbolic floating "krathong" on the river.

• Surat Bike WeekHeld annually in February in Muang Surat Thani.

• Surat Thani Kite Festival at Tha Chana BeachHeld annually in February or March in Tha Chana District.

• Hae Pha Hom Pharthat Si Surat Lae Thammachat Khao Tha Phet FairHeld annually in March in Muang Surat Thani.

• Surat Thani Food FairHeld annually in March along the Tapi River in Muang Surat Thani.

Swim

Water parks

• The Pirates Park

  phone: +66 77 380-999
  address: Highway 420, Muang Surat Thani
  Water park featuring inflatable slides, obstacle courses, kids' pools, and a garden/banquet area.

Public pools

• Praram Surat Thani

  address: Bang Bai Mai, Muang Surat Thani
  Nicknamed 'The Mushroom Pool' for its mushroom waterfall structure. Popular swimming spot for the local expat English teachers.

• Pool Koff

  address: Bang Kung, Muang Surat Thani

• Provincial Sport Centre Pool

  address: Bang Kung, Muang Surat Thani
  Olympic-sized swimming pool

• Sport Club Pool

  phone: +66 77 288-035
  address: Thatong Road, Talat, Muang Surat Thani
  Partially shaded swimming pool with a children's pool and 2 small water slides. Popular with locals for children's swimming lessons.

• Rajabhat University Sport Complex Pool

  address: Makham Tia, Muang Surat Thani

Hotel pools

• 100 Islands Resort and Spa Pool

  address: Makham Tia, Muang Surat Thani

• Diamond Plaza Hotel Pool

  address: Makham Tia, Muang Surat Thani

• Naraya Riverside Resort Pool

  address: Makham Tia, Muang Surat Thani

• Siam Thani Hotel Pool

  address: Si Wichai Road, Makham Tia, Muang Surat Thani

• Tawan Anda Garden Hotel Pool

  address: Makham Tia, Muang Surat Thani

• Wang Tai Hotel Pool

  address: Si Wichai Road, Talat, Muang Surat Thani

Local products

• Chaiya Salted Eggs (ไข่เค็มไชยา) – Ducks in Chaiya eat mollusks, crabs, and fish on the farm, which make their egg yolks particularly red. Eggs are covered with soil mixed with salty water and rice husks.
• Oysters (หอยนางรม) – Surat Thani's oysters are well known for their size, cleanliness, taste, and smell.
• Rambutan – Rambutan here are exceptional due thanks to their sweet taste, crisp meat, big size, small seeds, and thin peel.
• Phumriang Silk Cloth (ผ้าไหมพุมเรียง) – Hand-woven products of a Muslim village. The weavers here create their own patterns which are embossed on the silk by shuttle looms.
• Tha Krachai woven cloth (ผ้าทอท่ากระจาย)
• Para-rubber leaf butterflies (ผีเสื้อใบยางพารา)
• Bulrush wickerwork (ผลิตภัณฑ์จักสานจากกระจูด)
• Kalamae (กะละแม)
• Processed seafood products (ผลิตภัณฑ์อาหารทะเลแปรรูป)
• Coconut wooden products (ผลิตภัณฑ์ไม้มะพร้าว)

Groceries

• Tops Supermarket

  address: 1st FL. CentralPlaza Surat Thani
  Good selection of Western foods, including bakery products, cheese, wine, beer, and sweets. Also carries 'Waitrose' products imported from the UK.

• Tesco Lotus

  address: 2nd FL. Tesco Lotus Surat Thani
  One of the larger grocery stores in Surat Thani. Good selection of meat, produce, and grocery items. Also carries 'Tesco Finest' products imported from the UK.

• Big COne of the larger grocery stores in Surat Thani. Good selection of meat, produce, and grocery items.

• Makro

  address: Chonkasem Road
  Most items sold in bulk. Cheap meat and vegetables. Large selection of spices as well as some imported products. No membership needed, pick up a pass from the customer service desk on the way in.

Souvenirs

• OTOP Souvenir Shop at 100 Islands Resort

  phone: +66 81-892-4677 (mobile)
  address: Highway 420, Makham Tia, Muang Surat Thani
  Large number of souvenirs and local handicrafts, including hand woven baskets, coconut and mango wood products, pearls, clothing, dried fruit, and fish products.

• OTOP Product Zone in CentralPlaza Surat Thani

  address: 3rd FL. Central Plaza
  Selection of Thai products and souvenirs, including hand woven baskets, coconut and mango wood products, clothing, and cosmetics.

Night markets

• San Jao Night Market

  address: Tri Anusonn Rd at Namuang Rd.
  Walk the block and pick up whatever treats catch your eye, or grab a table at one of the restaurants and watch the market scene as you dine. Freshly juiced fruits, corn on the cob, squid-kebabs, fried chicken, saffron rice, pad Thai, sushi.

• Night Boat PierA popular spot for tourists to eat and drink beer before boarding the night boat to Ko Tao or Ko Pha Ngan. Lots of food carts selling seafood and noodles and standard Thai fare at only slightly elevated prices. If you walk further down the road toward the bridge, you'll find fruit vendors galore.

• Wonderland Night Market

  phone: +66 64-652-2478
  address: Bang Kung, Muang Surat Thani
  One of the newer night markets in town. Smaller selection of food compared to the other night markets like San Jao and Diamond, but has one of Surat's best beer gardens, sit-นี่.

• Diamond Night Market

  address: Pohkhuntale Road, Makham Tia, Muang Surat Thani
  One of the largest night markets in Surat Thani. Good variety of food.

Thai

• Kampan

  address: Amphur Rd
  A garden like (street corner) setting makes Kampan a spot for a date. It's classy and expensive. Small menu, no juices or smoothies or anti alcoholics. Great choice of beer and whiskey. In the early hours modern music, Thai music, later live Thai band.

Isan

• Zaab Eli Der 2

  phone: +66 95-412-9339 (mobile)
  address: Chalokratt 24, Bang Kung, Muang Surat Thani
  This Thai Isan restaurant is located on a lotus pond. Indoor and outdoor seating. Menu is in Thai only but has pictures.

Mid-range

• BaanBonKhao ViewSuay

  phone: +66 99 364-3299 (mobile)
  On a hill, BaanBonKhao ViewSuay has amazing views of nearby mountains and the surrounding rubber tree farms. Has an extensive menu of Thai food including hard to find local specialties. Menu is in Thai only.

• Vanilla Cafe & Bistro

  phone: +66 96-635-9147 (mobile)
  Closest thing that Surat Thani has to “fine dining”, along with Day & Night. Offers Thai, southern Thai, European, Japanese, Korean, and Chinese fusion dishes.

Splurge

• Day & Night Restaurant

  phone: +66 86-571-9992 (mobile)
  Opened in 2016, Day & Night is Surat Thani's fine dining restaurant. Their drink menu is the largest in Surat Thani, offering beer (draught, cider beer, craft, imported), signature cocktails and shooters, wine (red, white, sparkling, champagne, rose), rum, liquor, single malt, Japanese single malt, gin, vermouth, vodka, whisky, and bourbon. Their menu includes pizza, salad, burgers, lamb, salmon, and Canadian lobster. Indoor and outdoor seating. Popular wedding venue.

Vegetarian

• Jay Wa Wa (อาหารเจวาวา)

• Jae Tom Vegetarian Restaurant (ร้านอาหารเจเจ๊ต้อม)

• Jay Hong Vegan Restaurant (ร้านอาหารเจ เจ๊หงษ์)

• Vegetarian Cafe

• Surat Thani VegetarianCafeteria style vegetarian restaurant with a nice garden ambiance. Selection of juices as well as free cleansing tea to go with your meal. Open since 2006.

Halal

• Madube (ม๊ะดูบี)

  address: Chalokratt Road

• Bismillah (บิสมิลลาฮ)

  address: Muang Road

Seafood

• Lamphu 3 (ลำพู 3)

  phone: +66 77 286-995
  Lampu 3 offers up some of the freshest seafood in Surat Thani. Giant river prawns, shrimp, crab, squid, cockles, fish, and Surat Thani's famous giant oysters. Menu in Thai and English.

Japanese

• Hashi Japanese Restaurant

  phone: +66 77 284-888
  address: Bang Kung, Muang Surat Thani
  One of the more expensive Japanese restaurants in town.

• On-Zen Japanese Cafe

  phone: +66 95 423-8186 (mobile)
  address: Donnok Road
  Formally MyCup Cafe, the building underwent renovations in 2018 and re-opened as On-Zen. This cafe serves Japanese food such as sushi, donburi, ramen, curry, as well as sandwiches, burgers, and salads.

Dessert

• 2SISTERs Cafe

  phone: +66 92 263-8838 (mobile)
  address: Bang Kung, Muang Surat Thani
  Specializes in cakes and Chazen boba tea. Same owners as Baan Cake.

• Baan Cake

  phone: +66 77 295-344,+66 77 295-053
  address: Highway 420, Makham Tia, Muang Surat Thani
  Known for their young coconut cake.

• 69 Milk

  phone: +66 85-524-2248 (mobile)
  address: Chalokratt Road, Bang Kung, Muang Surat Thani
  Specializes in Bingsu, a Korean shaved ice dessert.

• Ice Cream Nam Choke

  phone: +66 77 281-207
  address: Off Chonkasem Road, Makham Tia, Muang Surat Thani
  Homemade ice cream with the option of a frozen egg on top. Famous in Surat Thani for decades. Flavours include: coconut, durian, strawberry, vanilla, coffee, and chocolate.

• Yotse

  phone: +66 81-839-8262 (mobile)
  address: Amphur Road, Muang Surat Thani
  Ice cream served in a Thai fire pot (maw fai/หม้อไฟ) with dry ice added to give it a smoke effect.

Chain restaurants

Western

• Sizzler

  address: 3rd FL. CentralPlaza
  All you can eat soup, salad, pasta, and dessert bar. Also offers steak, grilled meat, and burgers.

• McDonald's

  address: 1st FL. CentralPlaza

• KFC4 branches: Central Plaza, Tesco-Lotus, Coliseum, and Saha Thai

• Pizza Hut

  address: 1st FL. Tesco Lotus

• Dairy Queen5 branches: Central Plaza (1st FL. and 3rd FL.), Tesco Lotus, Saha Thai, and Big C. Seasonal blizzard flavours include mango and sticky rice, green tea, Thai tea with jelly, and durian.

Thai

• MK Restaurants2 branches: CentralPlaza and Tesco Lotus. Famous for their suki (hot pot) and roast duck.

• Bar-B-Q Plaza

  address: 3rd FL. CentralPlaza
  DIY tableside BBQ

• S&P Restaurant

  address: 3rd FL. CentralPlaza
  Thai and Thai-style western dishes.

• Chester’s Grill

  address: Tesco Lotus
  Specializes in chicken dishes.

• Black Canyon Coffee

  address: CentralPlaza
  Large menu offering sandwiches, salads, and steak.

Bars & pubs

• sit-นี่ (Sit Nee)

  phone: +66 91-036-8597 (mobile)
  address: Wonderland Night Market
  Outdoor beer garden

• Masuk Bar (มาสุข บาร์)

  phone: +66 88-760-8893 (mobile)
  address: Amphur Road
  Signature shots, cocktails, and fire shows. Also hosts the Surat Thani Teacher bi-monthly pub quiz on occasions.

• Mouth 2 Mouth

  phone: +66 77 969-099
  address: Amphur Road
  Cafe & restuarant, food, international beer, cocktail, whisky, wine, and music

Coffee

• The Grounds Cafe & Hangout

  phone: +66 85-445-1516 (mobile)
  Contender for the best coffee in Muang Surat Thani, The Grounds lives up to its name as a popular hangout spot. Western style breakfast available. Fantastic milkshakes and smoothies.

• Sky Koff

  phone: +66 91-526-5888 (mobile)
  A small café at Sky Hill Restaurant with beautiful views of the city.

• KensA small café overlooking the Khun Thale marsh offering excellent coffee and a Thai-Western menu. Owned by a Thai couple, Ken & Pop, who spent a number of years overseas in Australia.

• Renovate Espresso Bar

  phone: +66 96-759-3659 (mobile)
  A small dessert and coffee café with signature drinks flavours like navel orange, coconut, and charcoal.

Budget

• Baan URT Surat Thani Airport Hotel

  phone: +66 77 955 118
  address: 71 Maluan
  Clean, comfortable rooms, sells tickets to the island and provides free breakfast and free transfers to the airport.

• Ban Don Hotel

  phone: +66 77-272-167
  address: 268/2 Namuang Rd.
  A place for really cheap and clean rooms, but for 300 baht, don't expect anything fancy. Most rooms don't have air-con or hot water and the entrance is through a shady looking restaurant. But, if you're looking for a place just to stay a night while passing through, it's pretty good for the price.

• Myplace@surat Hotel

  address: 247/5 Namuang Rd
  Single room, fan, toilet outside, start at 199 baht. Bath inside from 290 baht. Clean good-sized rooms. Free Wi-Fi.

• Tapee Hotel

  phone: +66 77-272-575
  address: 100 Chonkasem Rd
  The price differences range from fan to air-con and view. Bright entrance, staffed front desk, and short distance to the market and bus stations. The rooms are older, very clean, and the air-con worked quietly. Five minutes from the waterfront and night market.

• Thai Rungruang Hotel

  address: Rungrueang Alley
  Business hotel. Relatively nice, quiet, clean and good-sized rooms. Some have TV and hot water (probably just the air-con rooms). Wi-Fi available via username and password for 100 baht/24 hr. The hotel staff are very helpful and polite and speak enough English to answer your questions.

• The Port Hostel by Suwatchai

  phone: +66 86 595-4444 (mobile)
  Opened in 2016. Less than 250m from the Night Boat Pier.

• Journey Hostel

  phone: +66 62-216-6615

Mid-range

• Grand Thara Hotel

  phone: +66 77-273-740-3
  address: 1/144 Donnok Rd

• 100 Islands Resort and SpaClean, spacious rooms. Wide range of facilities and amenities including air conditioning, minifridge in the room, a pool, spa, and restaurant on-site.

• Princess Park Hotel

  phone: +66 86 475-7780 (mobile)
  address: 19/19 Leangmuang Rd
  Muslim owned and operated. The only Halal hotel in Surat Thani.

Splurge

• Diamond Plaza Hotel

  phone: +66 77 277299
  address: 83/27 Sriwichai Rd, Moo 2 Makamtia District
  Reputedly the best hotel in town although on a dismal commercial stretch of road.

• Naraya Riverside Resort

  phone: +66 77 603-201
  address: Si Wichai 21, Makham Tia, Muang Surat Thani
  Modern hotel that backs onto the river. Large outdoor pool, fitness center, and children's playground.

• Khao Sok National Park — jungle adventures
• Ko Samui — backpacker paradise gone up-market
• Ko Pha Ngan — home of the infamous Full Moon Party
• Ko Tao — popular diving spot and a good place to get certified
• Ang Thong National Marine Park
• Khao Lak — coastal resort region and diving centre just north of Ko Phuket